Online CNA Classes in Michigan: Review & Compare Top Programs

Breaking Down Online CNA Classes in Michigan

Finding the right online CNA classes in Michigan involves doing some research. You’ll need to know which classes are offered online, which are in person, how long the program takes, what the price tag is, and if financial aid is available. With that information in hand, you’ll be ready to choose a CNA program and launch your career.

But don’t stress, we’ve done some of the research for you and rounded up three standout options that offer fast tracks toward becoming a licensed CNA in a nursing home, hospital, or other healthcare facility. Each program is designed so you can fit CNA classwork into your busy schedule. Keep reading to get the details and plan your next step toward becoming a CNA in Michigan.

Answering Popular Questions from CNA Students

Although becoming a CNA is a quick, straightforward process, you may still have lingering questions. We’ve rounded up the answers prospective students need so you can have as much information as possible to make informed decisions on your path to becoming a CNA.

Are there two-week CNA classes online in Michigan?

Two-week CNA classes are available in Michigan, including the Heart to Heart Healthcare Training class offered in Essexville and Ypsilanti. Classes are offered monthly and are in a hybrid format. Advanced Care Training offers classes that take about two-and-a-half weeks. Lectures are entirely online on Tuesdays and Thursdays, while in-person clinical requirements are scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Plan to spend three to four hours per day on classwork. The school also offers a Saturday-only option, which requires eight Saturdays. Four-week online CNA programs are popular as well, including the Certified Nurse Aide Training Program from GRCC.

How do I get a CNA license in Michigan?

To be licensed as a CNA, you’ll need to complete a state-certified training course, pass a CNA competency test, and correctly demonstrate your clinical skills. From there, you can apply for CNA jobs in various medical settings. In some states, if you have experience working in a nursing home you can take the CNA test without completing a training course, but that’s not the case in Michigan. All CNAs must complete a training course that is approved by the state before they are eligible to take the Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. In some cases, the cost of the evaluation will be reimbursed by the CNA’s employer. Once you have your license, you’ll need to keep it current by logging 12 continuing education credits each year and renewing your license every 24 months at a cost of $40.

How long does it take to become a CNA in Michigan?

Becoming a CNA in Michigan takes as long as your training course, which typically runs two to four weeks. You can then begin work as a CNA, even before taking or passing your exams. It’s important to note that you’ll need to pass your CNA competency exam within the first four months of your employment as a CNA or you’ll be required to leave your position. You’ll have three attempts to pass the CNA test. If you don’t pass, you’ll have to repeat your training. The test includes two sections, a knowledge test with 60 multiple-choice questions and a clinical skills test in which you demonstrate five skills from a list of 20. If you pass one section but not the other, you’ll only need to retake the section you failed.

How much do CNA classes cost in Michigan?

The cost of CNA classes in Michigan varies widely depending on who offers the course. For instance, Bay College charges $905, making it one of the most affordable options. Advanced Care Training charges $975 for students who aren’t eligible for government funding or scholarships. Heart to Heart Healthcare Training costs $1,050, and GRCC costs $1,069. So overall, the price difference between the various programs is typically about $100. With that in mind, you don’t want to choose your program strictly based on cost. Consider online versus in-person courses, the convenience of campus access, and whether the fee covers your state exam, uniforms, background check, and other required items.

Is free CNA training available in Michigan?

It’s possible to get free CNA training in Michigan, but you’ll need to qualify for scholarships or assistance programs. As you evaluate each potential program, check the school’s financial aid page to see if scholarships or other assistance are available for CNA students. These opportunities aren’t the norm, so most prospective CNAs should count on spending some money to cover the cost of a training course. Luckily, CNA courses are priced around $1,000, and while that’s not an insignificant expense, most students are able to pay installments or save up prior to the class’s start.

Expected Salary & Job Prospects for CNAs in Michigan

Since we've covered your path to becoming a CNA in Michigan, it’s now time to take a look at the state’s job market. While Michigan's CNA job market may not be experiencing explosive growth, it still offers stable employment opportunities. Although Michigan’s CNA job growth rate is significantly lower than the national average, it still indicates a steady demand for skilled nursing professionals. A lower job growth rate can be due to many factors, such as a slower-growing population and a more mature healthcare industry, which may contribute to a slower pace of job growth compared to other states.

When examining CNA salary data for Michigan, the Ann Arbor area offers the highest median salary for CNAs, while the Niles-Benton Harbor area has a lower median salary. Interestingly, Battle Creek boasts the highest-earning CNAs in the state. Salaries across Michigan may fluctuate for several reasons, including the concentration of healthcare facilities and the cost of living. Take a look at the tables below to gain better insight into the Michigan CNA market.